Residential real estate in the Kootenay and Boundary region continued to show strong sales activity in February, with a notable increase compared to the same period last year, according to the latest report from the Association of Interior Realtors.
A total of 914 residential properties changed hands across the association's coverage area last month, surpassing January's 806 sales and marking an 11.3 per cent year-over-year increase.
Meanwhile, new residential listings across the region saw a slight decline of 1.7 per cent from February 2024, with 2,304 new properties entering the market.
Active inventory, however, grew by 11.8 per cent compared to the previous year, totalling 7,346 listings.
Among the areas experiencing the most significant inventory growth was Central Okanagan, where active listings climbed 19.7 per cent compared to February last year.
"It was a steady month for real estate transactions despite a minor dip in new listings," said Association President Kaytee Sharun. "Typically, we see an increase in market momentum heading into the spring season.
"However, external influences such as economic uncertainty and the potential effects of tariffs may be contributing to a more measured pace in real estate activity."
The Kootenay and Boundary region stood out with 204 residential sales in February, reflecting a significant 34.2 per cent jump from February 2024 and an increase from January’s 168 transactions.
The area also saw a rise in new listings, with 365 properties hitting the market, up 7.0 per cent from the previous year and higher than January’s 289 new listings.
Overall, active listings in the Kootenay region rose by 15.8 per cent compared to last year, reaching 1,252 properties.
"The real estate market in the Kootenay and Boundary region continues to reflect seasonal trends, maintaining steady activity and balanced conditions," Sharun noted. "While supply remains slightly below ideal levels, well-priced properties are still generating strong buyer interest, reinforcing the region's strength as one of the province’s more robust markets."
In terms of pricing, the benchmark price, which reflects the value of a home with typical attributes rather than relying on average or median values, showed growth across all housing categories in the Kootenay region.
The most notable increase came in the townhome segment, where prices rose 19.2 per cent year-over-year to $506,200.
Condominium prices saw a 10.7 per cent gain, reaching $356,000, while single-family homes recorded a 1.7 per cent increase, bringing the benchmark price to $582,100.
